Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheet Toxic Concerns

At our last meeting Lara spoke briefly about the negative effects of fabric softener. Here is a little more info for everyone.Fabric softener and dryer sheets are some of the most toxic products around. These products contain chemicals that can cause cancer and brain damage. Some of the chemicals found in fabric softeners and dryer sheets include the following: Benzyl acetate: Linked to pancreatic cancer Benzyl Alcohol: Upper respiratory tract irritant Ethanol: On the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Hazardous Waste list and can cause central nervous system disorders Limonene: Known carcinogen A-Terpineol: Can cause respiratory problems, including fatal edema, and central nervous system damage Ethyl Acetate: A narcotic on the EPA's Hazardous Waste list Camphor: Causes central nervous system disorders Chloroform: Neurotoxic, anesthetic and carcinogenic Linalool: A narcotic that causes central nervous system disorders Pentane: A chemical known to be harmful if inhaled The chemicals in fabric softeners are irritating and strong smelling, thus strong fragrances are added to cover the chemical odors. Fabric softeners are made to stay in your clothing for long periods of time. These chemicals are slowly released either into the air you and your family inhale or absorbed into your skin. Dryer sheets may be even worse for you as they are heated in the dryer and the chemicals are then released out into the environment. Health effects from being exposed to the chemicals in fabric softeners include the following: Central nervous system disorders Headaches Nausea Vomiting Dizziness Blood pressure reduction Irritation to skin, mucus membranes and respiratory tract Pancreatic cancer The effects of these chemicals may not be seen today but may occur over time. Make changes to your laundry today. Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of these chemicals. If you still desire a nice smell to your clothing add essential oils that are clear with no coloring as the colored oils may stain your clothing. You will actually save money using alternative methods and find scents that your family enjoys. For example, Lavendar essential oil is wonderful to add to your children's pajamas as it helps soothe and calm them during pre-bedtime routines.Natural Suggestions to soften your clothing:Add a quarter cup of baking soda to wash cycle to soften fabric Add a quarter cup of white vinegar to wash cycle to soften fabric and eliminate cling Visit your local health food store for a natural fabric softener that uses a natural base instead of chemicals.

4 comments:

I'm really irritated when my neighbors use the sheets. I have to stay inside to avoid the heavy smell in the air. My lips and nose burn when exposed to it making it impossible to even go out for an evening walk. I would like to write about it in our local paper...would you mind if I directed readers to your site for the info.?

I am a Executive Sales Leader for Norwex and would love to show you alternatives of NON TOXIC household items. Let me show you how to Save Time Save Money & Drastically Reduce the Chemicals in your home. www.LindasNorwexClean.com

Welcome

The Barefoot Mamas' Network is a group of women located in the Inland Empire whose purpose is to provide local support, education and awareness for holistic and natural parenting. We are passionate about the lifestyle choices we have discovered for our families and we have created this group as a means to network with similar mommies out there. We strive to encourage families on their quest to parent naturally and provide measures for like moms to connect and share ideas and information. If you are new to holistic parenting, have years of experience or simply desire information, we welcome all members. Our goal is to empower one another on our journey while respecting each person's parenting choices.